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Home » Limited access to South Lake shoreline until June, due to work on dam

Limited access to South Lake shoreline until June, due to work on dam

Southern California Edison (SCE) has announced that work to upgrade the dam face at South Lake Reservoir is expected to commence on April 15, weather conditions permitting. At this time, SCE will clear snow from access roads to the dam and mobilize equipment and materials needed at the work site.

The South Lake Reservoir upgrade involves the installation of a new geomembrane liner to protect the dam face from current and future leaks. The liner is expected to extend the life span of the dam by up to thirty years.

To accommodate this important infrastructure upgrade project, the water level in South Lake will be held at a reduced level beginning mid-April through July.

SCE anticipates the reservoir will be completely full by July 31 of this year. Crew and equipment will be transported to the work area using existing public roads and trails to minimize potential impacts to the area.

Foot trails to access the reservoir are estimated to be re-opened to the public around the end of June. Depending on snow conditions, access may be sonner. At that time, SCE will be stocking the natural lake with approximately 600 trophy size Alpers trout.

Work on the reservoir’s dam face can only be conducted during the spring and summer months due to access issues caused by snow during the fall and winter. The Inyo National Forest and Southern California Edison appreciate the public’s cooperation while this work progresses.

For more information please contact Sheila Irons, Inyo National Forest Lands and Special Uses specialist, at 760-924-5534.